In the past week, our country has been rocked by a series of protests and riots in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
Over the weekend, protests took place throughout Arkansas — including downtown Little Rock.
In some cases, things turned violent and destructive.
It’s difficult to know what to say during times like these, but in a series of statements made online last week, Rev. Franklin Graham offers these words, writing,
What took place Monday on a Minneapolis street, by the Minneapolis Police Department should deeply concern each and every American. It’s inexcusable. . . . Police are not the judge and jury. These officers will have to stand before God and the authorities on this earth for what they have done. . . .
However, burning, destroying, and looting communities isn’t the answer. This just heaps more pain and hurt on lives and livelihoods. . . .
George’s loved ones and friends have said he was a gentle giant and that he would’ve been devastated to see the rioting.
I ask Christians across the country to pray—for calm, for peace, and for an end to the violence. This honors no one and may cost many more lives. I ask every church to contact your members and ask them to pray. Our nation is in trouble. The only One who can heal the racial divide is Jesus Christ who has the power to transform the human heart.
You can read Franklin Graham’s full statements here, here, and here.
During these unprecedented times, I hope you and your church will join us in praying for peace and healing in our state and across our country.
